The "Getting On The Air" column by W1ZR. Vacuum tube based equipment
is far too dangerous to consider for a first rig, and building your
own equipment apparently isn't even a consideration any longer. If it
uses tubes, GASP! High Voltage! We can't have any of that! Also,
avoid gear older than 8 years, because you might not be able to get it
repaired. I hang my head in shame over what has happened to this once
great hobby where people were somewhat technically competent. Those
that lacked technical skills at least learned a bit of theory to at
least have a basic understanding of the operation of their equipment.
At 44 years old, I'm a relative youngster in ham radio. I build and
restore vacuum tube equipment. I also play the guitar. The electric
guitar fraternity seems to embrace homebrewing far more than the
amateur community does today. Most good guitar amp designs are still
vacuum tube based, including modern designs. People regularly modify
their amps or build clone designs. Yes, high voltage. You learn the
proper precautions. Seems rather funny that a musician might be more
apt to work with electronics than a ham radio operator.
Modern electronics is too complicated, tubes are too dangerous - it's
no wonder that electronics isn't even taught any longer throughout
most of the school system.
I'm really beginning to question why I continue to support the ARRL.
At first when I saw the cover of this issue, I had thought there would
be all these neat projects from the Homebrewer's Challenge. Needless
to say, I was disappointed. I used to treasure QST. While I still
save all my issues, I'm beginning to wonder why. It certainly isn't
the technical journal it once was.
73,
Joe, N6DGY
Pleasant Grove, UT